FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a bacteria application device, and in particular to an application device to apply beneficial bacteria to skin.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Our skin is a wonderful and complex organ of the body. As well as protecting our body, our skin has its own microbiome of bacteria which act as a protective barrier against other, potentially harmful bacteria. Provided our microbiome of bacteria is in balance and intact, we will be largely unaware of these beneficial bacteria.

[0003] Antibiotic resistant bacteria are on the increase, and while we are continually developing new antibiotics to treat these bacterial infections, the race becomes more and more difficult. Every year people develop skin infections of antibiotic resistant bacteria, and with no effective treatment, it is a waiting game to see if the person will be able to fight the infection. It is anticipated that the problem of antibiotic resistant bacteria will continue to increase. In part this is due to the over prescription of antibiotics, encouraging the natural development of bacteria that can survive and thrive, nevertheless.

[0004] The problem of antibiotic resistant bacteria colonisation is a particular problem for health care professionals. Health care professional are in contact with numerous patients during their work, and need to wash their hands repeatedly throughout the day, and use alcohol based hand sanitisers to remove the risk of patient-to-patient contamination. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the need to thoroughly and repeatedly wash our hands, and apply hand sanitiser, much more often than previously has extended this problem to the general population.

[0005] Hand washing with soap is an excellent method to clean away dirt and to also reduce the risk of spreading viruses and bacteria picked up, but this also removes the protective bacteria. Without the protective bacteria layer pathogens that otherwise may be kept out, can take hold. For health care workers the sanitised environment can lead to antibiotic resistant bacteria to be picked up on the hands of the worker and spread about the hospital. There is further a risk of taking these bacteria and viruses back to the friends and family of the worker.

[0006] The inventor has therefore developed a surprising new device that can apply a safe dose of beneficial bacteria to the hands. In this way, even with frequent washing and use of antibacterial or hand-sanitising products to remove unwanted bacteria, the bacteria wanted to keep a healthy microbiome on the skin can be reintroduced. A healthy bacteria microbiome prevents the colonisation of pathogens which, if allowed to flourish, could spread and mutate to antibiotic resistant variants, which is clearly highly undesirable.

[0007] The inventor has developed a unique beneficial bacterial delivery system that may be used to apply the “good bacteria”, to replace or add to those which should be on the skin in any case, to the hands of a person in a safe and convenient manner. The use of a dispensing device that can be operated hands free to dispense the exact amount of bacteria in a solution provides a novel solution to this serious and significant problem. It is anticipated that the invention will be the start of new way to avoid bacterial infection and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistant bacteria as a community, a further benefit. It is envisaged that the invention will become standard practise at health practises and hospitals as a convenient and extremely user friendly way to improve general health. Further, use of the invention may be offered as an option at other workplaces, where accessibility to the bacterial application device will be of great benefit. This clever new invention provides a practical application to encourage good bacteria growth on our hands, to substantially prevent the harmful bacterial growing and multiplying instead, which could lead to disease.

[0008] The following describes a non-limiting example of the invention being used with reference to a water solution of particular bacteria or combinations of bacteria applied to the hands. The invention could be used to apply any living organism, not limited to bacteria, other than as defined in the claims. Likewise, the water solution could be replaced by any fluid, not limited to water other than as defined in the claims. Further, application to the hands is very useful, as it is the hands where most interaction with bacteria occurs, and of course also frequent hand-washing removes the naturally residing bacteria. However, any parts of the skin may benefit from the application of the bacteria through use of the invention, and it is not intended to limit the use of the invention or application of the bacteria or other living organism to the skin of the hands, other than as limited by the claims. The invention has significant potential and as such it is envisaged that many useful applications will be found for the device, to apply the beneficial solution to skin.

[0009] For clarity, any prior art referred to herein, does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge, in Australia or elsewhere.

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide a bacteria application device that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. It is a further and separate object of the invention to provide a method of bacteria application using an application device. It is a further and separate object of the invention to provide an application device for applying a living organism to the skin of a person. It is another further and separate object of the invention to provide a method of applying a living organism to the skin of a person.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention provides an application device for applying bacteria to skin of a person, the application device including: a bacteria means with available beneficial bacteria; a water reservoir, in fluid connection with the bacteria means, to contact and mix the water with the available beneficial bacteria; a dispenser means to dispense the mixed water and beneficial bacteria, for application to the skin of the person; and a control means, to cause the water to flow to mix with the bacteria and be dispensed, as controlled by the person, wherein use of the control means causes the flow of water from the reservoir, to mix with the beneficial bacteria, and to be dispensed for use on the skin of the person.

[0012] The mixing of the water and beneficial bacteria, could occur outside of the application, or potentially prior to entering the reservoir in other forms of the invention. However, it is most convenient that the bacteria are kept separate from the water until dispensed, to maximise safety, and efficiency of the invention. [0013] Accordingly, the present invention provides an application device for applying a living organism to skin, the application device including: a storage means for the living organisms, the storage means including an inlet and an outlet; a water source, in fluid communication with the inlet of storage means; a control means to control the flow of the water from the water source; and a dispensing means, to dispense the living organism in water to an access point, the dispensing means being in fluid communication with the outlet of the storage means and the living organisms in water, wherein on operation of the control means the water is caused to pass from the water source to the inlet of the storage means, and to pass over the living organism and contact therewith, and the living organism and water passes out of the outlet of the storage means to the dispensing means, whereby it may be accessed by a person at the access point for application to the skin.

[0014] Accordingly, the present invention provides an application device for applying a beneficial solution to skin containing bacteria, the application device including: a storage means for the bacteria, the storage means including an inlet and an outlet; a water source, in fluid communication with the inlet of storage means; a control means to control the flow of the water from the water source for application; and a dispensing means, to dispense the living organism in water, the beneficial solution, to an access point, the dispensing means being in fluid communication with the outlet of the storage means and the living organisms in water, wherein on operation of the control means the water is caused to pass over the living organism and contact therewith, and the living organism and water passes out of the outlet of the storage means to the dispensing means, whereby it may be accessed by a person at the access point for application of the beneficial solution to the skin.

[0015] Accordingly, the present invention provides an application device for applying bacteria to skin, the application device including: a storage means for the bacteria; a water source, in fluid communication with the storage means to provide a bacteria water solution/mix; and a dispensing means, to dispense the bacteria in water solution to an access point, wherein on operation of the apparatus the water is caused to pass from the water source to the storage means, and to pass over the bacteria and contact therewith, and the bacteria and water mix passes from the storage means to the dispensing means, for accessed by a person at the access point for application to the skin.

[0016] Preferably, a control means is included and used to control the flow of water. Preferably, one or more control is included to cause the water to mix with the bacteria and or to be dispensed. Preferably, the bacteria or other living organism is one or more bacteria of benefit to the microbiome of the skin.

[0017] The bacteria may be any suitable bacteria, not harmful to apply to the skin. Preferably, the bacteria are bacteria chosen from bacteria that may usually reside on the skin. The bacteria may be the same or similar to commonly occurring bacteria on skin. Or the bacteria may be chosen from adapted bacteria, for example adapted to act to prevent innate antibiotic resistance.

[0018] Preferably, the one or more bacteria is bacteria that normally reside on human skin and are not known to cause or contribute to human disease. Preferably, more than one bacteria are included for increased benefit. In other forms a single bacteria type may be used. Preferably, the bacteria is chosen from the group: Actinobacteria; Firmicutes; Proteobacteria; and or Bacteroidetes phylums, including Propionibacterium; Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus groups, for example. Preferably, suitable bacteria may be chosen from the group: Micrococcus, Propionibacterium; Staphylococcus epidermidis; Staphylococcus lugdunensis; Corynebacterium striatum; Cutibacterium acnes; Lactiplantibacillus plantarum; and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Any suitable bacteria or the like may be used. Preferably, the growth media, temperature and other conditions needed for the specific bacteria or group of bacteria can be adapted accordingly. Different media may be used for different bacteria, as required. [0019] The invention may be useful to apply bacteria to any part of the body. Preferably, the device is useful to apply bacteria to the skin. Most preferably, the apparatus is used to apply the beneficial bacteria to the skin of the hands. The device may be adapted to apply the bacteria to any part of the skin as appropriate. The skin where the solution is applied may be chosen from the group: arms; face; feet; hands; legs; torso; or any part of the face or body.

[0020] The apparatus device may take any suitable form. The application device may be a small portable device. The application device may be proportioned to fit in a domestic microwave. Preferably, a number of small application devices are provided at locations where hand-washing occurs. Preferably, the small convenient size of the apparatus is useful for easy sterilisation and repeat use. The application device may be adapted to provide for numerous people, and therefore in a larger form.

[0021] Preferably, the storage means is a removable cartridge. The storage means may take any suitable form, to keep the live living organism or bacteria. Where the storage means is a removable cartridge, this form is particular useful to allow ready exchange. The removeable cartridge may be one or a number of exchangeable cartridges for use in the apparatus. A single use cartridge is also envisaged. A simpler form of the invention may include a sterile media for the bacteria with the bacteria introduced, to provide the source of beneficial bacteria without harmful bacteria.

[0022] The removable cartridge may include structure for growth media, on which bacteria can grow. Preferably, the cartridge is securely received within the rest of the storage means before use. Suitable clips and fasteners can be used to maintain in place in the usual fashion. Preferably, a door can be opened in the apparatus and the cartridge readily installed for use.

[0023] The growth media used in the cartridge will be adapted to be suitable to grow the particular bacteria or multiple bacteria. Preferably, for travel or storage an insert is included and not removed until the cartridge is to be used. The travel insert is preferably adapted specifically for travel. Preferably, the travel insert keeps the bacteria retained and sterile until the cartridge is used in the apparatus. Different media may be used for transport or storage of the bacteria is some forms of the invention. Preferably, the removal of the travel insert allows the bacteria to move downwards, ready to be dispensed. The travel insert may provide a physical barrier to prevent movement or contact with the bacteria and to keep from ingress of other living organisms which could cause contamination. The travel insert may be made of a suitable plastics material. Preferably, a paper covering is included on one or more part of the apparatus to protect and keep sterile parts until needed, at which time the paper can be punctured or removed. The travel insert may include the paper covering. Preferably, the paper is sterilisation paper or wrap to prevent ingress of bacteria or the like. The insert may take any suitable form. Preferably, the insert maintains the bacteria in a storage position until the insert is removed.

[0024] Preferably, the storage means, once any travel insert, is removed is ready for use in the device. Preferably, the storage means includes a structure for supporting the growth media, suitable to grow the bacteria. The growth bed may take any suitable form. The growth bed may include “J” shapes with the transport media directly underneath. Use of the “J” shapes may be useful to slow the growth of the bacteria in some circumstances. Use of different shapes in the growth bed can be useful to support, alter, or slow growth of bacteria as required for the particular circumstances.

[0025] Growth media as used with any parts of the apparatus may varied to suit the nature of the use of the invention. For example, division of the cartridge may be made into separate fields along the vertical and horizontal axis. In this way the placement of differing growth media vertically. Preferably, use of divisions of the growth area is used to reduce competition to the growing bacteria. In some forms of the invention competition the various bacteria groups is substantially removed.

[0026] Where a range of bacteria are to be used, or where different speeds of growing the bacteria is desired, different growth media are included. If the same media is used the bacteria can grow together but also separate sections can be included for different media for different bacteria. Preferably, the media chosen from the group: basal media such as nutrient agar; enriched media such as chocolate agar; or trypticase soy agar; or selective media is used to grow the bacteria. Preferably, basal media such as nutrient agar, enriched media such as chocolate agar or trypticase soy agar, selective media is used to grow the bacteria. A general media such as nutrient agar is appropriate for a wide range of bacteria. If a specific nutrient or media is required for a specific or particular bacteria arrangement, beyond the general configuration the apparatus could be adapted accordingly.

[0027] Preferably, the storage means is made of polypropylene. Other suitable materials may be used instead. Preferably, the storage means is made of a suitable plastics material that is able to be heat sterilised. Preferably, the sterilisation can be carried out through steam. The sterilisation could be made independently but it is a useful feature of the invention that the apparatus can be sterilised by placing in a microwave, and heating water to steam sterilise the apparatus. The use of a microwave to heat the water and boil and create steam to sterilise is useful to make the apparatus a very convenient addition, without the need for further specialist apparatus. Other forms of sterilisation of the apparatus may be used instead, in other inferior forms of the invention. The storage means may be sterilised within the apparatus before the bacteria carrying cartridge is inserted, so that the apparatus has all other bacteria removed before the introduction of the beneficial bacteria from the cartridge.

[0028] Preferably, the storage means includes an inlet and water can flow into the storage means and or cartridge through the inlet. Preferably, the storage means includes an outlet. Preferably, the water may pass through the inlet, over the bacteria in the storage means to mix therewith and leave by the outlet. Preferably, clean water enters the inlet of the storage means and water and bacteria leaves the storage means for use on the skin. Preferably, the clean water that enters the inlet has been sterilised to substantially remove any other bacteria before use and introduction of the beneficial bacteria. Other fluids may be used to pass from the inlet to the outlet to mix with the bacteria for use on the skin, as appropriate.

[0029] The fluid communication may be a simple flow, or include a pump or valve mechanism to move the water. Most preferably, on operation and one-way valve and pump arrangement can be used to cause water to move from the reservoir to the storage means to mix with the bacteria. Preferably, the water can then flow ready to be accessed. Additional valves, pumps (manual or electrically controlled as required) can be used to move the water from the reservoir through to the access point for use. The entire system may be electrically controlled including electrically actuated pumps and valves as required. In use, where a manual system is used a one-way valve may push a dose of water into the system to collect the bacteria and the pass under gravity to the access point for dispensing.

[0030] A water source is included to keep a sterile store of water for use in the apparatus. Preferably, the water source is an isolated water source. In other forms of the invention the water may be attached to a plumbed or pumped water source, and the water sterilised before use. Alternatively, sterile water can be introduced. However, it is far preferably to use the sterilisation system of the invention to sterilise in the apparatus using a microwave as a very convenient method to do so. Preferably, the water source is a water reservoir. Preferably, the water reservoir is suitable to serve 60 to 120 uses. Preferably, a margin of extra water is allowed for to ensure the reservoir is refilled before running out. In this way the water reservoir need only be changed once a month in standard usage. Smaller or larger reservoirs may be used instead, to suit the needs of the user and the particular application. Any suitable number of doses or uses of the invention may be set up by altering the reservoir volumes, time to refile and the amount dispensed each time. The water reservoir may be adapted to suit the needs of the user, for example for use on other parts of the body a larger dose of water may be dispensed each time in which case a larger reservoir or more frequent refilling will be required. Preferably, the volume per dispensed use or dose is 2 to 3 millilitres of water, as is particularly suitable to apply to both hands for applying the bacteria.

[0031] A control means is included to operate the device. The control means may take any suitable form. The control means may be a manual push button to cause water to pass through a one-way valve to collect bacteria and the pass to an access point for dispensing, it a simple form. More complex controls, and multiple valves, actuators and pumps may be used instead. A microprocessor may be included to enable electronic controls of the device. Preferably, the control means is a button, and depression of the button causes water to leave the water source and flow to the inlet of the storage means, over the bacteria, and leave the outlet towards the dispensing means ready to be accessed and used. The button may take any suitable form. Preferably, the button uses a simple displacement method to cause water to move from the water source to the inlet of the storage means. [0032] In some forms of the invention electronic controls may be included. Electronic controls may be included to manage the temperature control. The water dispensing may be controlled electronically. Any or each part of the apparatus may be controlled electronically. Automatic controls or touch free controls may be included through electronic controls.

[0033] Preferably, the dispensing means is in the form of a drawer. A handle may be included. The dispensing means may take any suitable form. Most preferably, the drawer extends below the outlet of storage means to collect the water and bacteria mix, and the drawer can be withdrawn for use on the skin. Preferably, the access point is where the water and bacteria can be reached and applied to the skin. Most preferably, the access point is the drawer and removal thereof to allow access to the water and bacteria. The access point could be through a tap mechanism, further push button, or a simple opening, any means to enable the dispensing of the bacteria and water mix. However, it is particular desirable to contain the bacteria and water mix, and not allow to be contaminated, use of the draw arrangement is particular useful in this regard.

[0034] Preferably, use of displacement of air and water is used in the invention through valves and tubes as appropriate to dispense the water and bacteria mix.. The arrangement may be as described in the Figures and accompanying parts of the description.

[0035] Accordingly, the invention also provides a removable cartridge for use with an application device, including a structure, growth media, cover, and travel insert, with an inlet for fresh water, whereby water and bacteria grown on the growth media can leave the outlet to be dispensed. Preferably, the cartridge is put in the storage means of the apparatus before use with sterile water to provide the useful dosing of water and bacteria appropriate to apply to the skin.

[0036] Accordingly, the present invention provides, in a variant, an application device for applying a beneficial solution to skin containing bacteria, the application device including: a storage means for the bacteria, the storage means including media for the live bacteria, and an inlet and an outlet to enable water to pass over the bacteria to mix it with the water; a water reservoir to provide the water, in fluid communication with the inlet of storage means; a dispensing means, to dispense the bacteria solution, to an access point, the dispensing means being in fluid communication with the outlet of the storage means and the bacteria mixed with water; and a control means to control the flow of the water from the water reservoir to the inlet of the storage means, and out of the outlet to the dispensing means to be accessible to the person via the access point, wherein on operation of the control means the bacteria water mix is available to the person for use on the skin, from the access point.

[0037] Accordingly, the invention also provides a method of application of bacteria to the skin with an application device, the application device including a storage means, water source, control mean and dispensing means, the method including the following steps: a) causing water to pass from an inlet to an outlet of the storage means over bacteria; and b) accessing the water and bacteria from the access point of the dispensing means, whereby water and bacteria can be applied to the skin from the access point.

[0038] Preferably, the application of the device of the method is the application device in any of the variants of the invention.

[0039] Accordingly, the invention further provides a method of sterilising the application device including a storage means, water source, control mean and dispensing means, and the method including the steps: a) causing heating of water in the reservoir; and b) enabling steam created from the water heating to travel about the apparatus to sterilise parts, whereby the steam sterilises the apparatus for reuse. [0040] The method may be applied just to one or more part of the apparatus. The whole apparatus may be put in a microwave to heat the water in the water source leading to steam to sterilise the apparatus. The cartridge may be sterilised separately. The cartridge may be sterilised in the apparatus when microwaved due to the ingress of steam created from the heater water in the water source through steam inlets. Alternative forms of sterilisation may be used instead. The beneficial bacteria will be introduced separately or after the sterilisation step, so that only the good bacteria will be mixed with the water for application to the skin.

[0041] The cleaning method may be adapted to suit to the dimensions of the apparatus. Preferably, where the apparatus is small it is most useful to be able to sterilise for reuse by putting the apparatus into a domestic microwave, and heating for 4 minutes (standard power). Where the microwave is less powerful, 5 or 6 or more minutes may be recommended instead.

[0042] The apparatus may be used to apply any living organism or bacteria. It is envisaged that specific applications may be made to apply a particular bacteria to the skin of a person where this will benefit the particular person. The particular bacteria may not be a typical good bacteria, or one found on the skin naturally for this person, but the application will be of benefit to the person, in this alternative form of the invention.

[0043] The invention is a particularly useful form where the bacteria are kept as a live culture, and water is passed over the bacteria to add these to the water to create the bacteria and water mix. In other forms of the invention, another manner of adding or mixing the beneficial bacteria to the water before accessing the water for application to the skin may be used instead.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0044] The apparatus may be produced industrially and supplied to wholesalers, retailers or direct to organisations for use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The invention will now be described in connection with a non-limiting preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view from the front of a bacteria dispenser, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention with the drawer closed, ready for use;

[0047] Figure 2 is a perspective view from the side of the bacteria dispenser of Figure 1 , with the drawer removed, the door open and the cartridge removed;

[0048] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the dispenser of Figure 1 illustrating the various components, before assembly into the housing;

[0049] Figure 4 is the perspective view from the front of the bacteria dispenser of Figure 1 , in a schematic form, illustrating the components as they sit within the housing;

[0050] Figure 5 is a left-hand side view, in schematic form, of the bacteria dispenser of Figure 4 showing the flow of water and bacteria to the back of the drawer, in particular;

[0051] Figure 6 is a right-hand side view, in schematic form, of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 4 and 5;

[0052] Figure 7 is a rear view, in schematic form, of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 4 to 6;

[0053] Figure 8 is a plan view from above in schematic form, of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 4 to 7, illustrating the connections (the tubes are omitted for ease of illustration);

[0054] Figure 9 is a front perspective exploded view of the cartridge of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 1 to 8;

[0055] Figure 10 is a rear perspective exploded view of the cartridge of the bacteria dispenser of Figure 9;

[0056] Figure 11 is a front perspective view of the cartridge of Figures 9 and 10;

[0057] Figure 12 is a side perspective view of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 1 to 8 with the housing removed illustrating the air tube and connection; [0058] Figure 13 is a side perspective view of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 1 to 8 with the housing removed illustrating the filling connection and tube; and

[0059] Figure 14 is a side perspective view of the bacteria dispenser of Figures 1 to 8 with the housing removed illustrating the water connection and tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION INCLUDING A BEST MODE

[0060] Referring to Figures 1 to 14, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be described, where bacteria dispenser 1 , has housing 10 with upper part 12 and lower part 14, labelled separately for convenience. Drawer 16 with handle 18 provides the access point for the water and bacteria mixture, to be withdrawn and applied to the hands of a person, preferably sufficient to apply to both hands. Upper part 12 of housing 10, includes door 20 for access within for maintenance. Lower part 14 of housing 10 includes button 22 (in two parts) in button recess 23. It is through use of button 22, depressed into button recess 23 that the person can cause the dispensing of the bacteria and water mixture from other parts of the apparatus into the rear part of drawer 16, through use of a simple displacement and one-way valve mechanism. Button 22 starts in recess 23 and depressing and releasing button 22 causes activation, to dispense the water and bacteria mix. Once the bacteria and water mixture has been created and dispensed into the rear of drawer 16, drawer 16 can be simply pulled out through use of handle 18, and the bacteria applied to the skin. The bacteria and water are not shown or labelled specifically in the drawings, but rather there is a detailed description of the journey of the water over the bacteria to drawer 16 discussed below.

[0061] Bacteria dispenser 1 , is made of a polypropylene plastics material, throughout. Other materials, including glass, ceramics or some metals, or natural composite materials may be used instead. One advantage of the invention is the sterilisation and reuse aspect of the cartridges through use of microwave and steam sterilisation. Therefore, a suitable plastic is used for these parts, namely polypropylene, so that these parts may be repeatedly used, sterilised and then reused, making the invention economic as well as a significant improvement over the art. While it is intended that the parts of bacteria dispenser 1 are generally covered through housing 10, it is intended that the water reservoir is made of a clear plastic so that the water level can be readily seen. The structure of bacteria dispenser 1 may be altered to suit the manufacturing process, or aesthetic requirements.

[0062] The person who will use the apparatus is not shown throughout the drawings, for ease of illustration though it may be readily understood that the person would use their recently cleaned hands (or elbow perhaps if wishing to avoid use of the hands) to pull on handle 18 pull drawer 16 towards them, and access the bacteria and water inside to apply to their skin. A conventional hand cleaning would take place first to remove debris and contaminants, including possibly pathogens, before the application and use of the invention to restore the desirable bacteria to the skin. The invention has been developed to apply the bacteria to the hands, as it is the hands that a person regularly cleans, removing the natural bacteria. However, the bacteria can be applied to any part of the body, and the delivery part of the apparatus may be adapted accordingly.

[0063] Referring in particular to Figure 2, drawer space 24 can be seen in lower part 14 of housing 10, to receive drawer 16 for access by the person through pulling and pushing on handle 18 in the usual manner. Drawer 16 is illustrated fully pulled out of drawer space 24 in Figure 2 to show that it extends to the back of housing 10. It is the part at the back of the arrangement of drawer 16, that lies below the flow of water and bacteria, for collection, so it can be withdrawn and accessed by a user.

[0064] Above, in upper part 12 of housing 10, is cartridge space 26, accessible by door 20, which is able to be removed or closed to reveal or cover cartridge space 26. Door 20 includes a front and side (neither labelled) in a generally “L-shaped” arrangement, to close with a push fit to upper part of housing 14. When maintaining bacteria dispenser 1 , door 20 can be opened to inspect the internal parts. Button 22 (in two parts) is positioned in button recess 23, ready for operation. It is through the easy pressing of button 22 to depress into button recess 23 causes water to flow and bacteria dispensing to occur through use of the displacement pump and one-way valve.

[0065] Referring to Figure 3 in particular, the exploded view illustrates how bacteria dispenser 1 is assembled. Housing 10 with upper part 12 and lower part 14 can be seen, empty, as is cartridge space 26, in a somewhat schematic drawing to illustrate the internal parts. Drawer 16 is shown with handle 18, ready to be pushed into drawer space 24, with water reservoir 28 to be installed above. As shown water reservoir 28 is maintained kept enclosed and safe from contamination until it is mixed with the good bacteria to be dispensed. It is envisaged that the water reservoir could be in sterile contact with a further tank for water supply. In other forms a plumbed water supply may be provided either directly, or via the water reservoir. As illustrated water reservoir 28 is filled with clean water before use, and sterilised through steam sterilisation by use of a microwave, as described elsewhere. Water reservoir nozzle 29 (Figure 3) of water reservoir lies below button 22 in recess 23, to force the air in to move the water as described below when the button is pressed.

[0066] Funnel 30 is adapted to receive the mixed water and bacteria from internal upper part 32 above, and be directed out towards the rear of drawer 16. Dripper arrangement 34, with dripper spikes 35, above internal upper part 32 receives the water from water reservoir 28. Internal upper part 32 is configured to receive bacteria cartridge 36, to hold it in place while the water flow contacts the bacteria ready for dispensing. Cartridge 36 including cover 38, back of cartridge 40 and cartridge insert 42 (refer Figure 9), is assembled before installation.

[0067] Referring in particular to Figures 4 to 7, the assembled bacteria dispenser 1 is illustrated from several views, with the relative position of the components shown. In Figures 5 and 6, the position of the lower portion of funnel 30 above the furthest part of drawer 16 can be seen, and it is from this lowest portion of funnel 30 that the mixed water and bacteria flows into drawer 16, ready for removal and access. Water reservoir 28 sits in front of this rear area, as is convenient.

[0068] Referring to Figure 8, and Figures 12 to 14 in particular, the views of bacteria dispenser 1 of Figures 4 to 7 is shown from above, which in particular illustrates dripper arrangement 34 and inlet 44 towards the top, and water reservoir 28, with water reservoir connection 46. Water inlet 44 is connected to water reservoir connection 46 by tube 48 (Figure 14) to provide water from water reservoir 28 on operation. Filling connection 50 is positioned centrally, with filing tube 52 (Figure 13) and air connection 54 with air tube 56 (Figure 12). The steps of use are described further below. [0069] Referring to Figures 9 to 11 , in particular cartridge 36 is shown in detail, which are removable cartridges to provide sterile introduction of the bacteria to apply to the skin. Cartridge 36 is stored and transported, and once needed for use door 20 opened, and the new cartridge simply pushed into position. Cartridge 36, including cover 38, back 40 and cartridge insert 42 between is of a novel design to the invention. Cover 38 includes push fit clips 58/59 which push into corresponding parts on back 40 (not separately labelled to enable cover 38 to readily removed and replaced to access the inside of cartridge 36. Inside cartridge 36 is cartridge insert 42 which fits over where the bacteria are grown on growth media 60. Cartridge insert 42 is used only during storage or transport of cartridge 36 to maintain the bacteria in place.

[0070] When used, insert 42 is removed allowing movement of the bacteria, under gravity. Below growth media 60 are concentrators 62 to concentrate the flow to improve interaction. Cartridge 36 also includes divider 64, transport portion 66 and steam access holes 68. Growth media 42 will typically be a range of media to grow multiple bacteria and at different speeds

[0071] In use, with cartridge 36 in position and ready for use, and water in water reservoir 28, button 22 is depressed in button recess 23, causing water to be pumped from water reservoir 28 through water connection 46 up to inlet 44 of dripper arrangement 34 above funnel 30.A manual positive water displacement pump is used to displace water from one location to another to dispense the bacteria to the hand of the person. The displacement mechanism includes two one-way valves one above the button and one below to allow water through but not back after dispensing. In more sophisticated or larger embodiments an electronic pump could be used instead. Any suitable means to dispense a small volume of water could be used. Water flows through dripper arrangement 34 into cartridge 36 and over growing media 60 where bacteria have previously been introduced and allowed to grow. Passing water over the bacteria picks up the bacteria and moves the bacteria with the water down under gravity towards concentrators 62. The water and dislodged bacteria fall under gravity through concentrators 62, to funnel 30 and right down to the back of drawer 16 below. The design is careful to capture all water and bacteria in drawer 16 to avoid loss or contamination, and provide the whole dose to the person for use. [0072] The resultant bacteria and water mixture is easily retrieved by the person using handle 18, removing drawer 16 and applying to the skin. Air dries the water from the skin quickly leaving on the beneficial bacteria. The bacteria can grow on the skin (harmlessly) as they would naturally. These naturally grown bacteria prevent breaks in the natural biome that may allow pathogens instead to grow and multiply.

[0073] The invention significantly assists to act against aggressive pathogens taking hold on the skin that could include antibiotic resistant bacteria. By renewing the skins natural colonies of bacteria, the person has a stronger barrier against outside bacteria. For healthcare worker, the risk of exposure to the pathogens, and the very high need for hand washing and use of sterilising alcohol based sanitisers, for example, puts healthcare workers at a particularly high risk. The invention, therefore is of particular benefit and use in the healthcare industry. The reduction of spread and growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria or other dangerous pathogens will in itself reduce the risk of further mutation, and its multiplication and growth will be kept to a minimum. There is of course the added bonus that local sharing of the pathogens to friends and family is reduced.

[0074] Periodically cartridge 36 must be replaced in order to ensure that there is growth media for the bacteria, and to ensure the removal of any possible contaminates. The design of bacterial dispenser 1 and sealed cartridge 36 discourages contamination, and any contamination should be minimal but it is advisable to replace cartridge 36 to remove any potential risk in this regard. To replace cartridge 36, door 20 is opened at the side and swung open, revealing cartridge 36.

[0075] There are three main service and maintenance tasks, cartridge replacement, water reservoir filling and sanitising. If only cartridge replacement is needed the person can proceed directly, after opening door 20. It is expected that a person will have clean hands when maintaining any part of bacteria dispenser 1 , but before handling cartridge 36 specifically this is particularly important to prevent contamination. Having cleaned their hands the person takes a new cartridge 36 and removes insert 42, which then enables the free movement of the grown bacteria under gravity from the transport part 66 to the growth media portion 60, ready for use and then dispensing. Depending on the bacteria, insert 42 may, in other forms of the invention, require the addition of a small brush to the upper most portion that touches transportation part 66 of cartridge 36. In the present form of the invention, during manufacturing insert 42 is placed in cartridge 36, while sterile. Insert 42 can be moved within cartridge 36 during manufacturing so that upper transport section 66 can be inoculated with the desired bacteria or group of beneficial bacteria, while the lower use portion and concentrators 62, remains sterile until insert 42 is removed by the user. The bacteria are one or more bacteria generally found on the skin and not the cause or contributor to health issues or diseases. There are more than an 1000 kinds of bacteria that grow on human skin and any one or more of these may be suitable if they are often pathogenic. The inventor is investigating those suitable to be rarely pathogenic, and tailoring groups for use in different circumstances. At present suitable bacteria include Micrococcus, Propionibacterium, Staphylococcus epidermidis (specifically antibiotic susceptible varieties), Staphylococcus lugdunensis (produces an antibiotic that acts on Staphylococcus aureus), Corynebacterium striatum (which may act on Staphylococcus aureus), Cutibacterium acnes (previously known as Propionibacterium acnes), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (transient but can produce antimicrobials), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (known to produce antimicrobials and antifungals, but can be pathogenic). Some altered bacteria could be included or a group to remove otherwise antibiotic resistant properties from the group. Also some transient bacteria may be included, these impart the beneficial bacteria properties but are unable to reproduce. The upper portion of cartridge 36 is still covered with a paper cover (not shown) (standard sterilisation paper or wrap, suitable to prevent bacterial ingress) to prevent contamination at this stage, until ready for use. Dripper arrangement 34 has protruding spikes 35 that penetrate this paper covering to allow the water through. The user closes door 20 and cartridge 36 is held in place by cartridge clips 58/59. These protruding clips 58 correspond to recesses (not shown) in housing 10 to assist alignment of cartridge 36 at installation. Once cartridge 36 is in place bacteria dispenser 1 is again ready for use to dispense and apply bacteria to the skin in water as required.

[0076] Water reservoir 28 also needs service and maintenance, to be refiled with tap water which is then sanitized through use of the microwave for a a few minute (4 to 6). Alternatively, sterile water may be used instead. Water reservoir 28 as illustrated has a water capacity of 400 millilitres to provide approximately 120 uses of 3 millilitres each, with some allowance for water loss. Some water may be lost during the microwave sanitising step as the water boils to kill the bacteria and so some volume may also be lost to the air at this point. With door 20 open filling tube 52 and filling connection 50 can be accessed, on the left-hand side. Filling tube 52 runs from the access point on the front right of water reservoir 28 top to the back of the device and then up the left hand side to the top before turning and running half way down the left hand side. Filling tube 52 normally points down so that bacteria and fungal spores cannot enter water reservoir 28. Filling tube 52 is pulled out of the channel (not labelled) it normally sits in and is pulled into an upright position for filling. A funnel (not shown) is placed to fill filling tube 52 and sufficient water to fill reservoir 28 is then poured slowly into the funnel. Air is displaced by the water and escapes reservoir 28 via the inaccessible downward pointing air tube 56 with air connection 54. These tubes locations are designed to ensure that should the device be knocked over in any direction water will not continually drain from the device. This ensures that air is not drawn in rapidly as this would potentially contaminate the water in the reservoir. For filling purposes, once reservoir 28 is full using a clear window for measuring (not shown in the drawings) the user returns filling tube 52 to its downward facing position and proceeds with the sanitation process.

[0077] The sanitation process can be conducted independently of other maintenance, or as part of the full process, in which case sanitisation is conducted first. Sanitisation takes place with cartridge 36 removed and water reservoir 28 containing some water. With door 20 closed bacteria dispenser (less the cartridge) is placed in a microwave for heating the water, which generate steam. It is the steam that acts to assist in the microwave sterilisation. A domestic microwave can be used or a larger industrial device if available. To carry out the process door 20 is closed to keep as much of the steam about to be generated within bacteria dispenser 1 . As the water in reservoir 28 boils the steam escapes via both air tube 56 and the filling tube 52. As the steam moves through bacteria dispenser 1 it reduces or eliminates bacteria and fungal spores, in particular in water reservoir 28 and the two tubes. It is important that bacteria dispenser 1 is kept sterile so that cartridge 36 is not subsequently contaminated with undesirable bacteria from the water. The steam also reduces or eliminates contaminants on dripper arrangement 34 and funnel 30 from previous use. Through use of the steam, including through steam holes 68 bacteria dispenser 1 is thoroughly cleaned and made suitable for installation of a fresh cartridge 36 and use to dispense bacteria and water. [0078] The invention may be used without the microwave/steam sanitisation, in which case application of boiling water may be used instead. The same areas, the reservoir and tubes, and drippers all can be sterilised in this way. Also a cleaning solution such as isopropyl alcohol to prevent contamination of cartridge 36 or water reservoir 28 can be used. Further, it is envisaged that a form of the invention will be developed with an integral heater. In this form the heater can be operated during a sterilisation step, to heat the water and use the water to boil water in the reservoir and cause steam to pass through the relevant parts of the dispenser. Larger forms of the invention may also include larger or multiple cartridges as required.

[0079] As described the size of bacteria dispenser 1 is suitable for ready use in a small room, and personal use. It is envisaged that for larger organisations or where repeated use is required, a larger apparatus will be used instead. Likewise the reservoir may need to be a larger reservoir for frequent use. A further form of the invention may be provided for use by larger groups of people, such as in a hospital or nursing home setting. In this form of the invention, multiple cartridges would be required with a mechanism in place to direct the water or solvent into the appropriate cartridge, switching between cartridges each time to avoid depletion of the bacteria. This form of the invention would require a larger water reservoir 28 and would use an independent heating mechanism as it would be too large to fit into a standard microwave. In another form of the invention a larger cartridge 36 is used and water is directed into different parts of growth media 60, alternating the location each time button 22 is pressed to spread the use. The cultured bacteria will continue to grow and replenish on growing media 60, but if fully used up, the cartridge would need to be replaced.

[0080] Some bacteria types may not be adequately washed off the growth media 60 by water alone. Or the bacteria may be damaged or killed when used in plain water. In these instances, bacteria dispenser 1 may have two reservoirs 28, one containing water and one containing another fluid. Water can be used as usual for the flow for dispensing bacteria and for the steam sterilising. The alternative reservoir 28, can be used for a second solvent or for water with other additions to assist for the steam sanitation process and one with another fluid or solvent in it to assist with the dispensing process. The second solvent may be something other than water, or be water with additions. It is considered that these additional elements may be assist in the growth or application of the bacteria. The second reservoir may be detachable in some forms of the invention, or in fact interchangeable.

[0081] In another form of the invention separate sanitising reservoirs and water (or other solvent) reservoirs may be included.

[0082] A culture heater may be included in some forms of the invention where the ambient temperature is insufficient for growth of the chosen bacteria.

[0083] The invention can be adapted to the particular needs and requirements of a user, and as can be understood, and has strong potential to lead to numerous forms and types of apparatus to apply bacteria to the skin. The invention can also be adapted to apply other living organisms to the skin, as required.

[0084] The subject invention is a significant step forward in the use of beneficial bacteria to help in the fight against pathogens and antibiotic resistant bacteria. The easy method of application to the skin of a person makes it a straight forward step to add to the hygiene regime, a final step after removal of all unwanted dirt and bacteria, to introduce beneficial bacteria to provide a living barrier to prevent pathogens taking hold.

[0085] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that changes may be made to the embodiment disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its various aspects.

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